True Grit Spinal Cord Program
Our Mission: To provide hope, healing, and inspiration to adolescents and young adults with spinal cord injuries
To provide hope, healing, and inspiration to adolescents and young adults with spinal cord injuries.
Sustaining a spinal cord injury (SCI) is life-altering at any age, but especially for teens who are developing their identity and planning for the future. True Grit SCI supports adolescents and young adults after hospital discharge by offering a comprehensive continuum of care focused on the transition to adulthood.
In collaboration with Rutgers University School of Health Professions, True Grit includes a signature week-long sleepaway program held on a college campus, as well as year-round programming such as single-day events, adaptive recreation opportunities, and virtual parent and caregiver support groups. Our interdisciplinary team—comprised of clinicians in occupational, physical, and recreational therapy, nursing, and peer mentors—provides developmentally appropriate, goal-directed support tailored to each participant and family.
Through True Grit, participants build independence and confidence, explore adaptive sports and leisure activities, trial new assistive technologies, and receive guidance in pursuing higher education or entering the workforce. Programming also includes education on SCI-specific topics relevant to this age group, while fostering peer connection and community. The residential experience offers a unique opportunity to safely practice and problem-solve real-world “college life,” with support available for all self-care needs.
We are committed to identifying what is most meaningful to each participant and creating opportunities that support their individual goals.
Being part of the True Grit community means no teen has to navigate life with SCI alone.
- Ages 15-21
- History of spinal cord injury/dysfunction
- Uses wheelchair as primary means of mobility
- Does not require respiratory support
- Able to use upper extremity to operate wheelchair
For more information contact Kassandra Boyd, SCI Clinical Coordinator:
